Thawing the Viscount's Heart: A Christmas Regency Romance (Belles of Christmas: Frost Fair Book 3) by Mindy Burbidge Strunk

Author:Mindy Burbidge Strunk [Strunk, Mindy Burbidge]
Language: eng
Format: azw3, epub
Publisher: FiveJoys Press
Published: 2020-11-06T16:00:00+00:00

Chapter 12

Rebekah had only left her rooms a few times since St. Stephen’s Day. And then she’d been subdued, avoiding Aaron’s gaze and only speaking when asked a question directly.

Aaron knew it was his doing. The set down he’d given her had not had the desired effect. Or perhaps it had. She was no longer suggesting the notion of marriage. But he regretted that he had made her feel the need to remain secluded. It seemed as if there was no correct solution where Rebekah was concerned.

He frowned into the mirror as Martin brushed at his coat. Perhaps he should speak with her, at least try to eliminate the awkwardness when they were in the same room.

He tugged on the front of his coat, pulling it tightly over his chest. He’d hoped to have some information back from his solicitor before he’d had this conversation—hoped to have some kind of plan to offer to her. But maybe he should not wait for news before speaking with her.

“Thank you, Martin.”

“You are welcome, my lord.” The valet bowed and moved to clear the room of Aaron’s nightclothes.

Aaron walked straight to his study, intent on summoning Rebekah as soon as he thought her awake and fed. He’d barely sat down when a knock sounded, and Collins entered the room. “The messenger you sent to London has returned, my lord.” He held out a folded paper. “This is the reply.”

Aaron smiled. The timing couldn’t be better. That did not happen often. Perhaps it was a sign that he was on the right path—not that he was a superstitious man.

He would hold off meeting with Rebekah until he read what Mr. Blakely had to say.

“Thank you, Collins.” He cracked the wax seal and unfolded the letter. Seeing his solicitor’s cramped writing brought back the memory of reading the letter telling him of Henry’s death. Aaron’s heartbeat hammered in his chest. It had been the worst letter he’d ever received—even more so than the news of his father’s death.

He paused and controlled his breathing. Hopefully, this would have better news.

My Lord,

I found your letter of December twenty-third interesting, indeed. As your brother’s widow, Lady Brinton’s jointure is small (a mere three hundred and thirty pounds). Of this she is aware. Do not let her lead you to believe otherwise.

Aaron paused. Had he given his solicitor the wrong idea about Rebekah? She’d not been acting as Henry described her, but Aaron did not believe her deceitful. He rather hoped, once he had answers to give her, that she would become the woman Henry had described in his letters once again. Aaron returned his attention to Mr. Blakely’s words.

As to your other question—there are three other Brinton properties, besides Ivydale. None may be sold or given away outright, however their use is left to your discretion. I have enclosed a list of the properties along with their location, advantages and disadvantages as I see them.

I am at your service however you wish to proceed.

Yours,

Robert Blakely

Aaron leaned back in his chair.

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